Spanish fishing industry leaders are pushing back against new EU regulations they say threaten their livelihoods while giving Morocco and Algeria a competitive advantage in Mediterranean markets, reports The Express.

The contentious policy, part of the EU's broader environmental sustainability initiative, would cap Mediterranean fishing vessels at 130 days at sea annually if they adopt specified sustainable practices.

Industry representatives argue this restriction could devastate Spain's fishing sector while leaving waters open to North African competitors who aren't bound by the same rules.

"No company or fisherman can sustain operations on just 130 days of fishing per year," Jose Maria Gallart, who heads the Andalusian federation of fishing associations, told El Debate. Gallart noted that numerous vessels are already sitting idle due to existing restrictions, while fishing fleets from Morocco and Algeria continue to operate under less stringent regulations.

Spanish fishermen suggest that new rules could result in a further 66% cut in trawlers. They fear this will lead to job losses and further weaken the sector's competitiveness compared to third countries.

The EU defends the measures as necessary to safeguard marine resources. A statement from the European Commission emphasized leveraging modern technology and scientific insights to ensure the sustainability of fishing practices.

Spain is expected to benefit from six of the EU's 12 compensation mechanisms designed to support the transition to sustainable practices. Still, fishermen insist these measures fall short of addressing their broader concerns.